Mugabe gives accent to internet, phone tap law

Mugabe gives accent to internet, phone tap law

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By Staff Reporter

PRESIDENT Robert Mugabe on Friday signed into law a new legislation which allows authorities to monitor phones, mail and the Internet to protect national security.

Mugabe also gave his nod to the Suppression of Foreign and International Terrorism Act and the
Masvingo State University Amendment Bill, said Misheck Sibanda, chief secretary to the president and cabinet.

Mugabe's domestic opponents see the Terrorism Act as the government's new instrument of repression. Dozens of opposition supporters have been arrested and tortured in recent months after being accused of engaging in "terrorism". None have so far been convicted.

The University Act changes the name of Masvingo University to Great Zimbabwe University. The name change was Mugabe’s wish.

But it is the Interception of Communications Bill that has alarmed Zimbabwean human rights groups and opposition parliamentarians.

While conceding the country needed to protect itself against terrorism, opposition officials said they feared the bill would pave the way for Mugabe's government to curtail freedom of speech and breach privacy.

The law was passed by parliament last month. Mugabe's ruling party has a two thirds majority.

Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) legislator David Coltart called the law a "fascist piece of legislation" that Mugabe's government could use in an ongoing crackdown on political dissent.

"I recognise the need for legislation of this nature, especially after the emergence of al Qaeda and international terrorism," Coltart said.

"The objection is what checks are there to stop the abuse of this law?"

Transport and Communications Minister Chris Mushohwe said the Bill was necessary to combat criminal activities that could threaten national security.

Similar legislation existed in the United States, Britain, Canada and South Africa, he said.

“We are all subject to this law ... and the country needs to act against those who
use technology to commit crime as is the norm globally,” Mushohwe told Parliament.
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